Up next for D-Backs: Cincinnati Reds

by Nick Piecoro - Jun. 29, 2009 07:35 PMThe Arizona Republic

At the plate: The Reds have been struggling to score, averaging only 3.8 a game in June, although they have scored 24 runs in winning three of their past four. 1B Joey Votto recently returned to the lineup after a bout with depression, going 8 for 25 (.320) over six games. RF Jay Bruce has 18 home runs but only a .298 on-base percentage. SS Alex Gonzalez, on the disabled list after elbow surgery, had been one of the league's least productive hitters.

On the mound: The staff ranks sixth in the National League with a 4.43 ERA. Much of the credit belongs to their bullpen, which has posted a league-best 3.34 ERA. RHP Johnny Cueto has been one of the league's best better pitchers, with a 2.86 ERA. But RHP Aaron Harang (3.95) is the only other starter with a sub-4.00 ERA. The bullpen, with RHP Francisco Cordero as the closer, has been excellent, with five pitchers who have 25 or more appearances have and ERAs below 2.50.

Overall: Offense hadn't been a big problem for the Reds in recent years, but this season has been different. They have missed the production of 3B Edwin Encarnacion, who is nearing a return from a wrist injury. One player who hasn't disappointed with the bat - former Diamondbacks RHP Micah Owings, who is 10 for 38 (.263) with two home runs.